The Lion King

Today, I’d like to conclude this series writing about one of my favourite films and certainly my favourite portrayal of Africa: The Lion King.

The heart-warming story is inspirational without being saccharine. It’s about courage, overcoming adversity and respecting the world we live in. Simba is only a few months old when he witnesses his father’s cruel death. Fearing that it was his fault and goaded on by his evil Uncle, he flees and starts a new life with his unlikely side-kicks Timone and Pumba. Following a rousing version of everyone’s favourite theme song ‘Hakuna Matata’, he returns, faces his demons and triumphs against all odds.

The story is as gratifying now, as it was when I was 5. Having watched The Lion King, there’s nothing I can’t do.

From a development point of view, such inspirational achievement certainly aids one’s personal development. It also highlights the beauty of the continent – yes, I know it’s an animation, but it is beautifully drawn. Lastly, the talk of the ‘Circle of Life’ reminds us that we are custodians for the planet, not owners. The circle of life will continue when we are no longer here and we’ve an obligation to leave the planet as we found it.

I will never tire of The Lion King.

Conclusion:

This brings us to the end of ‘culture week’ here on my blog. I hope you’ve enjoyed it. I’ve selected only few examples of how Africa is portrayed in our culture.  I could have gone on for weeks. But, my intention was to highlight just a few of the major trends in how Hollywood and the literary world interpret developing societies.